Tag Archives: seek godly counsel

This is a Test of the Biblical Decision-Making Process

There are 3 questions Christians should ask themselves before making any decision. First, is the choice you are about to make consistent with advice found in the Bible, Acts 17:11. Second, if you’re unsure about the decision you’re about to make, seek godly counsel, Proverbs 27:17. Finally, is this something that the Holy Spirit would sanction, Galatians 5:25.

Yet even if I do judge, My judgment is true [My decision is right]; for I am not alone [in making it], but [there are two of Us] I and the Father, Who sent Me. 17 In your [own] Law it is written that the testimony (evidence) of two persons is reliable and valid. 18 I am One [of the Two] bearing testimony concerning Myself; and My Father, Who sent Me, He also testifies about Me, John 8:16-18.

The disciple whom Jesus loved points out an essential process of decision making in the passage above. Whenever two Christian comes to an agreement, this is usually a sign that these individuals are aligned with God. Meanwhile, Matthew 18:15-18, is a guide when someone trespasses against you, reaching out to two or three witness to address this issue before you give the Devil a foothold.

It has been resolved by us in assembly to select men and send them [as messengers] to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26 Men who have hazarded their lives for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 So we have sent Judas and Silas, who themselves will bring you the same message by word of mouth. 28 For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to lay upon you any greater burden than these indispensable requirements: 29 That you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols and from [tasting] blood and from [eating the meat of animals] that have been strangled and from sexual impurity. If you keep yourselves from these things, you will do well. Farewell [be strong]! – Acts 15:25-29

Whenever you are forced to make a choice, don’t forget to consider whether your decision will be received, rejected or if this dilemma can be used to redeemed for good? The apostle Paul points to rejecting your fleshly desires by keeping in step with the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:25. As believers begin to check with the Bible for advice, seek godly counsel if unsure and be open to the Holy Spirit, future decisions will likely turn out better for you.

by Jay Mankus

Indecision verse Poor Decision Making

King Solomon writes the book of Proverbs for one of his sons with a sense of urgency to make good decisions in life. Perhaps, Solomon wanted his children to avoid making some of the bad choices that he made when he was young. Meanwhile, as an adult, Solomon thought that 700 wives wasn’t enough, so he added an additional 300 concubines to his harem.

Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths, Proverbs 3:5-6.

The apostle Paul reminded the Church at Rome of a similar fate due to human nature, Romans 3:9-12. A warning to members of Galatia in Galatians 5:16-17 help explain what influences poor decision making. This internal tug of war can lead to indecision as a major deadline approaches. When you’re unsure of what to do, lean on the Lord for understanding.

Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition ([b]definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace [shall be yours, that [c]tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall [d]garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, Philippians 4:6-7.

Unfortunately, indecision often breeds anxiety. Whenever you weigh the pros and cons of any decision, you have to pull the trigger eventually. Yet, if you find yourself consumed by uncertainty, seek godly counsel to pull your mind in the right direction. Whatever you end up deciding, life is all about living and learning so that you can move on from past failures and mistakes.

by Jay Mankus